Texas Heat Safety Tips

Keep Loved Ones Safe with These Heat Stroke Prevention Tips

In Texas, summer heat can turn a parked car into a dangerous environment in just minutes. When accidents happen and children and pets are left in a hot vehicle, it’s often because schedules are disrupted or attention is divided. A quiet child asleep in the back seat or a pet along for a quick errand can be forgotten in the rush of a busy day.

The good news is that small, consistent habits can prevent these tragedies. Here are five practical tips to help protect your loved ones from heat stroke:

1. Always check the back seat. Make it a routine to open the back door every time you park, even if you think the seat is empty.

2. Place a reminder item. Put something you need for work, like your phone, bag, or laptop, in the back seat next to your child or pet.

3. Use a visual cue. Keep a stuffed animal or bright object in the front seat when a child is in the back. Move it to the car seat when the child is out.

4. Lock your car at home. Prevent children from climbing into parked cars by keeping them locked and storing keys out of reach.

5. Never leave anyone behind. Even for a short stop, take children and pets with you. Cracked windows do not provide enough ventilation to keep a car safe.

Taking a few extra seconds to bring your child or pet inside can prevent a life-threatening situation. Heat stroke can happen quickly, especially in Texas where temperatures often exceed 100 degrees. Staying mindful and building these habits into your daily routine can make a lasting difference in keeping your loved ones safe.
It’s important to remember that even if you follow all of these tips, heat stroke can still happen, especially during extreme Texas heat.

Recognizing the signs early and knowing how to respond can make all the difference.

Signs of Heat Stroke (a medical emergency):

1. High Body Temperature

• Core body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher.

2. Altered Mental State or Behavior

• Confusion
• Agitation
• Slurred speech
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness

3. Hot, Dry Skin

• Skin may feel hot and dry to the touch (no sweating), especially in classic heat stroke.
• In exertional heat stroke (like in athletes), skin may be moist.

4. Flushed Skin

• Red or flushed appearance.

5. Rapid Breathing

• Fast, shallow breaths.

6. Racing Heartbeat

• Pulse may be strong and rapid.

7. Headache

• Often throbbing and severe.

8. Nausea and Vomiting

9. Dizziness or Lightheadedness

3 Tips to Follow When Faced with Heat Stroke

If you or a loved one may be experiencing heat stroke, quick action is critical. Here are three steps to take right away:

1. Call 911 immediately
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Contact help straightaway, especially if the person is confused, unconscious, or showing signs of severe overheating.

2. Move to a cooler area
Get the person out of the heat and into an air-conditioned space or shaded area. Remove excess clothing to help the body cool down.

3. Begin active cooling
Use cool water, wet towels, or ice packs on the neck, armpits, and groin. If possible, place the person in a cool bath or spray them with water while fanning. Offer chilled water or an electrolyte drink if they are alert and able to swallow.

By combining prevention with preparedness, you can reduce the risk of heat stroke and respond effectively if it occurs. A few mindful steps can go a long way in protecting the people and pets you care about most.